भवान्भीष्मश्च कर्णश्च कृपश्च समितिञ्जयः। अश्वत्थामा विकर्णश्च सौमदत्तिस्तथैव च।।1.8।।
There are personalities like yourself, Bheeshma, Karna, Kripa, Ashwatthama, Vikarn, and Bhurishrava, who are ever victorious in battle.
Translation
Duryodhana said: Among our great warriors are personalities like yourself, Grandfather Bhīṣma, Karṇa, Kṛpa, Aśvatthāmā, Vikarṇa, and Bhurishrava, who are always victorious in battle.
Word Meanings
bhavān — your good self bhīṣmaḥ — Grandfather Bhīṣma ca — also karṇaḥ — Karṇa ca — and kṛpaḥ — Kṛpa ca — and samitiñ-jayaḥ — always victorious in battle aśvatthāmā — Aśvatthāmā vikarṇaḥ — Vikarṇa ca — as well as saumadattiḥ — the son of Somadatta tathā — as well as eva — certainly ca — also
Understanding the Verse
In this verse, Duryodhana continues to describe the great warriors on his side, emphasizing their invincibility in battle. These warriors are known for their unmatched strength, valor, and military expertise, which make them key assets in the Kaurava army. Duryodhana particularly highlights their military prowess, underscoring their capabilities to his teacher, Dronacharya. Bhīṣma (Grandfather Bhīṣma): Bhīṣma, one of the most revered figures in the Mahabharata, was known for his vow of celibacy and his unwavering loyalty. A seasoned warrior, Bhīṣma was unmatched in his combat skills and was a key figure in the Kaurava army. Karna: The great warrior Karṇa, born to Kunti and the Sun God, was known for his unwavering loyalty to Duryodhana and his invincible skill in archery. His courage and dedication in battle made him a formidable foe. Kṛpa: A wise and experienced warrior, Kṛpa was the royal teacher of the Kauravas and Pandavas. He was known for his tactical acumen and had been a mentor to both sides, though he fought for the Kauravas. Aśvatthāmā: The son of Dronacharya, Aśvatthāmā was a powerful and brave warrior, known for his strategic mind and immense battle skills. He was one of the key commanders in the Kaurava army. Vikarṇa: Another son of Dhritarashtra, Vikarṇa was a valiant warrior who, despite his association with the Kauravas, showed a sense of righteousness and protested against the unfair treatment of the Pandavas. Bhurishrava: The son of Somadatta, Bhurishrava was a great chariot fighter known for his valor and fierce spirit on the battlefield. By naming these warriors, Duryodhana is reinforcing to Dronacharya that the Kaurava army is indeed formidable and that they have warriors who are more than capable of defeating the Pandavas. Duryodhana’s words aim to raise the morale of his army, showing that their strength lies not just in numbers but in the skill and might of their warriors. Interestingly, Duryodhana's mention of these warriors is a subtle attempt to assure his teacher and mentor that they are well-prepared for the war. However, Duryodhana's complex personality emerges as he balances between flattering Dronacharya and subtly reminding him of his duty to the Kaurava side.
